The Kansas City Chiefs released veteran defensive end Mike Danna on Monday as part of their ongoing salary cap management efforts. The move creates $9 million in cap space for the 2026 season, according to the Roster Management System. Danna, 28, had started 14 games for Kansas City last season, recording a sack and an interception.

This release follows the Chiefs' restructuring of Patrick Mahomes' contract last week, which generated $43.65 million in additional cap space. Kansas City entered the offseason over $57 million above the salary cap before making these moves. The team has been aggressive in creating financial flexibility while maintaining their championship-contending roster.

Danna, a 2020 fifth-round pick, spent his entire five-year career with the Chiefs and contributed to their two Super Bowl victories. He accumulated 23.5 sacks during his NFL tenure, including postseason play. The defensive end started 32 games over the past three seasons, establishing himself as a reliable rotational player. His departure marks the first significant roster change for Kansas City as they prepare for the new league year beginning in two weeks.